Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Addressing Vision Distortion and Misalignment

After retinal detachment surgery, there is a distortion in the visual field and the images from both eyes cannot be fused?

Hello! About a year ago, I underwent retinal detachment surgery on my right eye.
Due to a strong inflammatory response because of my young age, the doctor mentioned that there were numerous proliferative cells at the site of the detachment, which slightly affected the upper part of the macula.
After undergoing silicone oil tamponade and extensive treatment, my vision improved somewhat.
However, due to postoperative cataract issues, I had to replace the artificial lens.
It wasn't until the cataract was severely advanced and replaced that I discovered my visual field was distorted and the images from both eyes could not align.
A fundus examination revealed that there was a proliferative membrane on the retina causing irregularities.
I would like to ask if performing surgery to remove the proliferative membrane would improve the distortion of my visual field? Is there any treatment available for the misalignment of images from both eyes? Additionally, the doctor mentioned that I have early vitreous degeneration, which makes it easier for the retina to be pulled, leading to tears or even detachment, and that this is related to my constitution.
I would like to know if there are any treatment options available for this condition or ways to prevent further deterioration, or if I can only rely on regular monitoring without any other options? Thank you for addressing my concerns.

Hsu Chi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/01

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Dear Mr.
Hsu,
The distortion or deformation of the visual field caused by retinal surgery or disease is indeed very challenging to address.
The possibility of treatment and improvement varies from person to person, and it is essential to follow up with your surgeon for specific inquiries.

Sincerely,
Director He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2024/04/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your post-retinal detachment surgery condition. It sounds like you've been through quite a journey with your eye health, and I appreciate your patience in seeking clarity on these complex issues.

Firstly, regarding the presence of epiretinal membranes (ERM) that you mentioned, these membranes can indeed cause visual distortion and misalignment of images between the two eyes. If the ERM is causing significant distortion or affecting your vision, surgical intervention to remove the membrane may improve your visual symptoms. However, the success of this surgery can vary from person to person, and it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your ophthalmologist about the potential benefits and risks involved.

As for the misalignment of images between your two eyes, this condition, known as binocular disparity, can occur due to differences in visual acuity or alignment issues. If one eye has significantly better vision than the other, it can lead to difficulties in fusing images from both eyes, resulting in double vision or misalignment. Treatment options may include corrective lenses, vision therapy, or further surgical interventions, depending on the underlying cause. Again, this is something that should be discussed in detail with your eye care provider.

Regarding your concern about the early degeneration of the vitreous body, this condition can indeed predispose individuals to retinal tears or detachments. While there is no definitive treatment to reverse vitreous degeneration, regular monitoring by an eye specialist is crucial. They can help identify any changes in your condition early on, allowing for timely intervention if necessary. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, may support overall eye health, but specific preventive measures for vitreous degeneration are limited.

In summary, it is essential to maintain open communication with your ophthalmologist regarding your symptoms and treatment options. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and visual needs. Regular follow-ups are vital to monitor any changes in your eye health and to adjust your treatment plan as necessary.
I hope this information helps clarify your concerns, and I wish you the best in your recovery and ongoing eye health management. Please don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for any further questions or if you notice any changes in your vision. Thank you!

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